First Pitch: Time For Alex Presley to Return?

Alex Presley hit his second homer in as many nights tonight, and his third in his last seven games. In his last ten games he is hitting for a .306/.395/.750 line in 36 at-bats. The Pirates originally sent Presley down to get last year's swing back. The move didn't make a lot of sense on the surface, as everyone in the majors was struggling, but only Presley was sent down.

Presley's stat line is looking good lately, which raises the question as to whether it's time for him to return? The Pirates' offense has started to hit some in the last few games, but they are far from a complete offense. Garrett Jones has been getting starts in right field since Nate McLouth has been released. That's a big upgrade over McLouth, which isn't hard to accomplish, but Jones isn't an everyday player, struggling against left handers. Josh Harrison has also been getting some time in right field, but isn't an every day guy at the position.

Presley might not have a starter's upside, but he's got a better sh...

Tim is the owner and editor in chief of Pirates Prospects. He started the site in January 2009, and turned it into his full time job during the 2011 season. Prior to starting Pirates Prospects, Tim worked with AccuScore.com, providing MLB, NHL, and NFL coverage to various national media outlets, including ESPN Insider, USA Today, Yahoo Sports, and the Wall Street Journal. He also writes the annual Prospect Guide, which is sold through the site. Tim lives in Bradenton, where he provides live coverage all year of Spring Training, mini camp, instructs, the Bradenton Marauders, and the GCL Pirates.